The difference between the Roth and the Traditional 401(k) in these two scenarios ends up with the same result. Under what scenarios is there a differentiation between the outcomes? Obviously if the tax rate lowers in the future then a Roth loses, but I'd assume it remains at the least constant on to the future…

Roth:
contribution = $1000 - (.24)1000 *taxes
=760

760 x 1.20^30 = 180,405

Traditional:
contribution = $1000 - 0

1000 x 1.20^30 = 237,376

237376 - (.24)237376 = 180,405

Start with trad and change to Roth if it becomes better.

https://www.investopedia.com/roth-ir...-rules-4770480

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The scenarios where they are difference occurs dependent upon what you think tax rates will be and how much you will be withdrawing.

Say you are wanting to pull out 100k a year in 30 years… That is 240k. (Assuming 3% inflation). Will the tax rates be the same?

I am under the belief that for most people it doesn't matter.

Another factor is what your tax bracket is between the contribution and the withdrawal.

I can’t see the future obviously but I think it’s logical to induce that I might be making more at a higher bracket in the future. So it’d seem to make more sense to get the taxes out of the way now just for the lower rate.

Good point. I'm at the 24% tax bracket, but don't think it'll be too long to enter 32% if things keep going as they have been. Might be better to do pre-tax for now, then reconsider after I reach 32%.